Job hunting can be tough and even more so in a recession. During an economic crisis companies tend to have lay-offs and freeze hiring efforts, increasing the amount of active job seekers and decreasing the number of available jobs in the market. To be successful during these times you need to set yourself apart from your competition and stand out from a sea of job hunters. Here are our top strategies for finding employment during a recession.
- Set a job-hunting plan before things get rough
Start researching industries that are recession proof like healthcare, information technology, or government related jobs; focus on building a network with individuals that are already working within those industries. It is important that you form good relationships with them, that way if you end up unemployed during a recession you can have enough confidence to ask for assistance. Also, be active on LinkedIn, post about the latest projects you are working on and get connected with previous professional contacts. You never know who is looking at your profile and is in need of your skills.
- Gain more skills & qualifications
The more skills and qualifications you have, the higher your chances of landing a job. Therefore, educate yourself in skills that are related to your industry. Take courses that provide certifications to include on your resume. Even if your experience has made you an expert in your industry, certifications will still increase your chances of getting hired. Do not forget to make your continued education known online and get your skills endorsed on LinkedIn by your professional network.
- Update your job search tools
Make sure you have at least your resume and LinkedIn profile up to date. Do not update other sites like Indeed or Monster if you are employed, since you do not want to risk your employer thinking that you are actively looking for a new job; but have the information you want to add to those profiles handy in case of a surprise lay-off.
- List out early what you are willing to compromise on
Due to the high demand for jobs, job seekers have very small timeframes to accept offers. Therefore, you need to make a list of what you are willing to accept from a role before it is offered to you. Think of what you are willing to sacrifice in order to be employed and maintain your finances healthy. Are you willing to travel long distances for work? Move to a different city? Take a salary cut? Remember, during a recession employment is limited; so you will want to secure a job offer as soon as possible in case you do not receive another. Yet, think on how this new opportunity will affect your family, health, or well-being and set your priorities straight ahead of time.
- Look for multiple revenue streams
During a recession, lay-offs for full-time positions are common, yet those jobs still need to be done. Therefore, the demand for contract work increases. If an ISGF recruiter is helping you in your job search, make sure you mention that you are open for contract work. Freelance or contract work could be your ticket for financial success during a recession. So long as you learn how to work for multiple employers at the same time and manage your time correctly.
- Market yourself
Finding a job during a recession is all about proving that you are the best out of a sea of applicants, and the best way to do that is by showing results. Think of all your major accomplishments and include them in your resume, adding validity through numerical values. Also, memorize your accomplishments so you can recall them during interviews and use them to make your responses more persuasive.
Job searching during a recession is extremely tough, but success can be achieved through preparation and effort. All you need to do is expand your horizons, be open to new opportunities, and make your job search a full-time job. It is challenging work, but the resulting professional growth will make it all worth it.
Written by
Jose Caceres
Marketing Manager
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